Mother Nature activists released from prison

Two Mother Nature activists who were convicted of incitement to commit a felony and violation of privacy by the Koh Kong provincial court were released on Tuesday morning after completing their prison terms.

The two environmental activists, Hun Vannak and Doem Kundy, had been detained in Prek Svay prison in Koh Kong province since September 13 last year.

They were arrested after they photographed alleged sand dredging at a beach in Prek Khsach district. A complaint was filed against them by the company of tycoon Ly Yong Phat.

On January 26, presiding judge Keo Sokha sentenced the pair to one year each, with a seven-month suspended sentence and a fine one million riel each.

In Kongchit, the Koh Kong provincial coordinator for rights group Licadho, said Mr Vannak and Mr Kundy were released from the prison at about 11am on Tuesday morning after they completed their prison terms.

“I am so happy that my brother was released and hope they can get justice,” Mr Kundy’s brother, Kim Chamnan, said.

Outside Prek Svay Prison, civil society officials, United Nations for Human Rights in Cambodia representatives and land activists and youths also watched as the men were released.

The 6th Annual Tiger Street Football Festival 2018 continues this Sunday in Poipet city in what promises to be another dazzling display of intense futsal action and a fun superstar after-games party with performers and DJs.